Tropical Cyclone Chido: Record-Strength Storm Strikes Agalega, Impacts Anticipated for Mayotte and Mozambique

Tropical Cyclone Chido, the most powerful cyclone to strike Agalega in over 50 years, made landfall on December 12, 2024. It rapidly intensified to winds of 222 km/h (138 mph) and is projected to impact northern Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique. Warnings have been issued as weather conditions are expected to deteriorate in these regions.

Tropical Cyclone Chido made landfall on the Agalega Islands, Mauritius, on December 12, 2024, registering as the most powerful cyclone to impact the area in over half a century. The cyclone, classified as a category 4-equivalent storm, exhibited a rapid intensification whereby wind speeds escalated from 111 km/h (69 mph) to a staggering 222 km/h (138 mph) within a 24-hour stretch. After striking Agalega, Cyclone Chido is projected to traverse northern Madagascar on December 13, followed by an approach towards Mayotte, ultimately aiming for landfall in Mozambique, near Nacala, by December 15.

Originating in the Southwest Indian Ocean, Cyclone Chido formed on December 10, 2024, as the third named storm of the current cyclone season. It swiftly intensified post-formation, hitting its peak intensity, as evidenced by Enhanced Infrared (EIR) imagery, which displayed a compact eye measuring approximately 11 km (7 miles) in width. Although weakening is anticipated as the cyclone approaches Madagascar due to cooler sea surface temperatures, it is expected to maintain considerable strength, with projected maximum sustained winds of 130 to 150 km/h (80 to 95 mph) at landfall in Mozambique.
Widely acknowledged as the most formidable cyclone since Cyclone Andry in 1983, Chido has raised alarm for regions potentially affected. Madagascar’s northern province, Mayotte, and surrounding areas are bracing for severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, strong winds, and the risk of coastal flooding. Authorities have issued cyclone pre-alerts to ensure that local residents are adequately prepared for the impending perilous weather.

In terms of immediate weather impacts, northern Madagascar is anticipated to experience deteriorating conditions starting Friday morning, with severe rain and wind forecasts. Meanwhile, as Cyclone Chido approaches Mayotte, officials have raised concerns regarding the island’s potential weather volatility. Lastly, as Chido heads towards Mozambique, detailed region-specific impact predictions remain uncertain due to variability in the cyclone’s path.

Tropical cyclones are significant meteorological events that can cause extensive damage and loss of life. The Southwest Indian Ocean regularly experiences cyclones, with varying intensity levels. The formation of Cyclone Chido underscores the dangerous nature of rapidly intensifying storms, particularly in regions such as Agalega, Madagascar, and Mozambique, which have seen devastating impacts from historical cyclones. Understanding the trajectory and intensity of such storms is crucial for preparation and mitigation efforts in affected communities.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Chido is a severe weather event that has emerged as the strongest cyclone to strike Agalega in over fifty years. With significant wind speeds and projected paths affecting northern Madagascar, Mayotte, and Mozambique, the response from authorities is vital to ensure the safety of residents. As the cyclone approaches, local governments and meteorological services are urged to keep communities informed to minimize potential devastation.

Original Source: watchers.news